May 5/08 12:12 pm - US Air Force Cycling Classic

Posted by Editoress on 05/5/08

US Air Force Cycling Classic May 4th, Crystal City VAOrganization press release

Twenty-five year old Sebastian Haedo (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutter Home) took first place today in the 2008 U.S. Air Force Cycling Classic Mens Pro Race in an exhilarating sprint to the finish in the last seconds of the three hour and twenty-seven minute race.

Relatively unknown on the pro circuit, Haedos surprising win came over last years winner Kyle Wamsley (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutter Home) and other pre-race favorites. Wamsley took second place, and Alex Candelario (Kelly Bennefit Strategies/Medifast) took third, with Andrew Randell (Symmetrics) ahead of all three medalists until the final fifty meters. Randell was named Most Aggressive Rider of the day.

The 12 lap race took place on an extremely challenging 12.5 kilometer course, with a difficult chicane and many sharp turns. There was no patron during the race, keeping spectators on edge as the cyclists neared the finish line. Only about half the competitors completed the entire race, less than most events.

Prior to the thrilling Mens Pro Race, the day began with the Crystal Ride, an open ride for cyclists of all levels; Military Academy Races; and the ever-popular Kids Race. The Academy races pitted the U.S. Air Force Cycling Team against the U.S. Naval Academy and Military Academy at West Point Cycling Teams. The Air Force won the Team Time Trials, while the U.S. Military Academy at West Point won the sprint competitions. However, based on total points, the U.S. Naval Academy Cycling Team won overall.

All money raised through the U.S. Air Force Cycling Classic will go to Saul Raisins Raisin Hope fund, which raises money for people who have suffered Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). In conjunction with the U.S. Air Force, the funds raised will benefit troops who have suffered TBI while serving the nation overseas.

The day was a huge success, said Rob Laybourn, Event Director and President of Arlington Sports, Inc. You could not have asked for better weather in Crystal City, and we had a great turnout for the nail-biting end of the Mens race. It is always gratifying to raise money for such a worthy cause.

The U.S. Air Force Cycling Classic grew out of 2007s Crystal City Classic and promises to be a premier destination for professional and amateur racers alike in years to come.

Note: Andrew Randell was Most Aggressive Rider and Symmetrics won the Team GC.